Location:

 2-3 hours north of Nairobi, near Kinangop and directly west of the Aberdare National Park
.  Karima is adjacent to Kwambekenya.

Description:

In 1992, the Kinangop area experienced considerable growth as a result of political unrest in other parts of Kenya.  Kikuyu relocated from areas of Kenya where they were evicted for tribal reasons.  This was a slow and peaceful relocation giving the residents an opportunity to sell their land and migrate to Karima where they purchased plots from various landowners.

Located at the base of the Aberdare Mountains, Karima is rural farmland and the people depend on agricultural activities to support themselves.  Community members are very excited about their partnership with The 410 Bridge and have taken ownership in the programs and projects that have been started.

In 2008, a large-scale water project was undertaken that included a borehole and several large storage tanks strategically located throughout Karima.  The final phase of water distribution is slated for 2012.

In 2010 a new classroom block was constructed at Kawamaitha Primary School and in 2011 a nursery classroom was also constructed.  Kawamaitha is home to over 1,000 students and overcrowding remains a problem.  Additional classroom blocks are slated for 2012 when and if funding becomes available.

There is an active women’s micro-enterprise cooperative designing and constructing various crafts for sale.  The project was initiated and organized by the women of Karima themselves.  Having access to clean water gave them the time to begin other endeavors.

Community Partner(s):

• FBC Clinton (SC)
• Weddington Church (NC)

Priorities:

• Education
• Micro-Enterprise Training

410 Community Coordinator:

• Christopher Gachunji

Primary Tribe:

•  Kikuyu